Hello all, this is a test post as I have been Spam Blocked from all of Weavo. I've been in contact with our administrator Erica, and we're working to correct it. If this message gets through I can yet again respond you all. Arggg!

Hi lollismith I'm glad you asked, and hopefully this response will pass the Spam Blocker after three tries, and all information lost! That said, Rare earth magnets are comprised of what is considered rare minerals. The magnets are very brittle and prone to corrosion, so they are usually plated, or coated. The best thing about them is they are very stable, and are several times stronger than any equal sized standard magnet! The 1/4" ones used in my shuttles are a non-mechanical way to securely hold the bobbin shaft on one end while the other end will swivel up on an axle pin. They work great, and are fun to play with! Frank

Ok, that makes sense. For a moment I thought that the bobbin shaft was held on both sides by magnets. You do lovely work, and I enjoy admiring different woods. Here's a hint if you treasure your tools, avoid pecan, hickory, and wenge. Hubby says they are as hard on saw blades and planer knives as working stainless steel.

Hi lollismith, and thanks. I actually thought of using these magnets at both ends, then decided that would be more difficult during loading as well as another way to loose things like the shafts! Your Hubby is right that's why as the snow falls here in Vermont I'll have plenty of time to resharpen everything! This is also why the African Black Ebony is still in the wood box! Frank.